Mixed-orientation Relationships Research Articles

Caught between growing up and family struggles: Adolescents’ gaze at love, hatred, and conflicts in “Dear Ex”

ABSTRACT This creative piece interweaves social work perspectives with the narrative of the 2018 Taiwanese comedy-drama film, “Dear Ex.” I delve into the complex interpersonal dynamics among the characters: a father struggling with his hidden sexuality and eventual passing, a wife grappling with acceptance of homosexuality while tending to assign blame to a third party, the man involved in a same-sex relationship with the father navigating the loss of his lover, and a child caught in the knotty interplay of these adult affairs. This analysis specifically explores themes such as mixed-orientation relationships, the emotional withdrawal of adolescents, the contrast between Asian “guilt trip” parenting and Western parenting, the unique dynamics of adolescent-counselor relationships, and the concept that “shared suffering breeds companionship” within modern families. The piece concludes by applying the notion of social tensegrity to shed light on the intricate structures within families. It provides meaningful enlightenment for social workers, counselors, and researchers working with adolescents in diverse family contexts.

Less is MORE: a phenomenological study of the experiences of mixed orientation relationships in couples therapy

Mixed Orientation Relationships (MOREs) confront a variety of issues during couples counseling. The dyadic experience, presenting issues of MOREs, and clinical implications are nascent areas of study in counseling psychology. Using a phenomenological approach, this study examines themes of the presenting issues of MOREs and their counselors’ identities. The framework of Relational Cultural Theory (RCT) is provided to examine MORE dyads and their experience in couples counseling. RCT is a feminist-based approach to therapy that prioritizes healing through relational connection for marginalized people. Future directions and clinical implications are also provided.

Navigating Remarkable Communication Experiences of Sexual Minorities

Navigating Remarkable Communication Experiences of Sexual Minorities

Unicorns on the Digital Range: Bisexual Persons’ Experiences of Geo-Social Networking Application Use

Geo-social networking applications (GSNAs) like Tinder and Grindr are popular tools for connecting with people for romance, sex, and other purposes, particularly among sexual minorities. This paper draws on narrative interviews with 13 bisexual persons (5 cisgender men, 6 cisgender women, 2 trans/nonbinary persons) to explore their GSNA use, including motives and gratifications, relational dynamics, and implications for individual identities and cultural understandings of bisexuality. Participants presented complex and ambivalent accounts of their GSNA use, revealing a variety of relational aspirations and experiences. Whatever users’ goals, cultural meanings associated with bisexuality shaped online interactions in ways that impeded their fulfillment, with binegativity routinely preventing relationship formation in the first instance or precipitating relationship dissolution. Despite these challenges, bisexual persons regularly have successful digitally-mediated encounters which can reshape private and collective understandings of bisexuality. GSNAs expose users to new experiences and discourses that help them make sense of their erotic predilections, including partner sex/gender sexuality. They may also play a role in the broader sea change in attitudes toward bisexuality by facilitating the formation of mixed orientation relationships wherein stereotypes are gradually replaced by direct personal experience.

Asking for MORE: a phenomenological exploration of the dyadic coming out process in mixed orientation relationships

Both the sexual minority individual (SMI) and partner of the sexual minority individual (PSMI) in a mixed orientation relationship (MORE) experience stress, and stress related growth during the coming out process. However, the implications and experiences of this relationship through a dyadic perspective has yet to be explored. Using a phenomenological approach, this study examined the lived experience of the dyadic coming out process in MOREs through the theoretical lens of Meyer’s (2003) minority stress model and Vaughan and Weahler’s (2010) coming out growth (COG) model. Data analysis with nine MORE dyads provided a first-hand account of how minority stress and COG flow through the dyad before, during, and after SMIs and PSMIs engaged in the coming out process. The findings confirm the applicability of minority stress and COG theories to both members of the MORE. Themes that emerged in the data include awareness, disclosure, discovery, grief, support, and reconstruction.

Predictors and outcomes of LGB individuals’ sexual orientation disclosure to heterosexual romantic partners

ABSTRACT LGB individuals coming out to heterosexual partners can be difficult in mixed-orientation relationships. This study examined the predictors and outcomes of LGB people’s sexual orientation disclosure and perceived partner reactions. Participants (N = 417) were LGB adults residing in the US who came out to their heterosexual romantic partners. Path analysis results showed that LGB individuals’ disclosure goals, internalized homophobia, and perceived power over partners were associated with degrees of disclosure and partners’ reactions, which in turn were related to LGB disclosers’ depressive symptoms and relationship satisfaction. The results have implications for coming out studies and suggest how, what, and when LGB people to come out to their heterosexual partners.

Between Mainstream and Marginality: The Case of Men and Women of Mixed-Orientation Relationships

ABSTRACT The literature regarding mixed-orientation relationships (MORs) focuses on individual and relationship aspects. Our study, informed by the social construction of reality theory, illuminates social aspects by examining social attitudes toward MORs as they are experienced and perceived by individuals of MOR. Within the scope of this study, we focused on self-identified non-straight men (gays, bisexuals, or men who have sex with men) who are in a relationship with self-identified straight women. Based on the phenomenological paradigm, we conducted 38 interviews with men and eight with women currently in MOR. The findings show that individuals of MOR primarily encounter negative attitudes from people in society regarding themselves and the nature of their relationship. Participants perceived that others viewed their relationships in terms of conflict, impossibility, or transitional stage. Social attitudes individuals of MOR encounter affect the degree of closeness of these couples to others in their social environment, resulting in constant tension between the participants’ desire to be open to and close to others and the need to conceal and keep a distance. We argue that the dialectical tensions between disclosure-concealment and autonomy-closeness are related to the marginalization of these couples as a social category.

Sexual Satisfaction and Mental Health in Mixed-Orientation Relationships: A Mormon Sample of Sexual Minority Partners

This study explored predictors of sexual satisfaction for sexual minorities within mixed-orientation relationships (MOR) currently affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS or Mormon). This sample of 272 sexual minorities in mixed-orientation relationships was taken from the larger Four-Options data set. Satisfaction and health within four sexual identity relationship options. The Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy, doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2018.1531333]. Results indicated that more other-sex sexual attraction and behavior significantly predicted sexual satisfaction indirectly through sexual attraction and sexual aversion to a current partner. Bisexual identified partners reported higher sexual satisfaction than LGB label rejecters, lesbian and gay counterparts, but scored highest on depression and anxiety. Clinicians working with Mormon clients in mixed-orientation relationships can help clients consider the role sexual attraction and aversion may play in their ability to flourish in a mixed-orientation relationship. Family members, non-familial support systems, and church leaders are encouraged to move towards creating a safer space for greater visibility of bisexual-identifying partners within mixed-orientation relationships.

Mental health, relationships, and sex: exploring patterns among bisexual individuals in mixed orientation relationships

ABSTRACTDrawing on minority stress theory and sexual health literature, this exploratory study tested the relations of bisexual identity factors (e.g. anticipated binegativity, identity affirmation), minority stressors (e.g. isolation and vicarious trauma), and sexual and relationship variables (e.g. sexual functioning, relationship satisfaction) with mental health. Participants were 53 self-identified bisexual individuals in a mixed orientation relationship (MORE) with partners who did not also identify as bisexual. Moderate or above levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were reported by 34.5%, 25.4%, and 27.3% of the sample, respectively. Minority stressors were examined as mediators of the relations of bisexual identity factors and mental health outcomes. Isolation significantly mediated anticipated binegativity and depression, anxiety, and stress. Additionally, vicarious trauma mediated the relation of bisexual identity affirmation with anxiety. Consistent with existing literature, mental health concerns were negatively correlated with various aspects of sexual functioning and relationship satisfaction. Bisexual individuals in monogamous relationships with lesbian-identified partners reported lower stress levels than those with heterosexual partners. Results from the current study provide preliminary information about the health of bisexual individuals in MOREs, and point to minority stressors as potentially fruitful targets of prevention and intervention efforts to reduce negative mental health outcomes among bisexual populations.

Bisexual inclusive couples therapy: assessment and treatment with bisexuals in mixed orientation relationships

ABSTRACTThis paper aims to improve understanding of why mixed orientation couples may seek treatment, as well as to support sex and relationship therapists in providing affirmative and respectful services. Mixed orientation relationships, relationships in which partners have different sexual orientation identities, can include a variety of combinations. This paper focuses on mixed orientation relationships in which one partner identifies as bisexual and the other partner does not. A bisexual identity and a mixed orientation relationship are not inherent problems; however, they can create interpersonal and intrapersonal conflicts that may lead to treatment. Therefore, sex and relationship therapists should be aware of special considerations that could improve treatment with bisexuals in mixed orientation relationships with gay, lesbian, and heterosexual partners. It is important for sex and relationship therapists to take additional care in assessing the meaning of sexual orientation to the bisexual partner, what it means to their non-bisexual partner, and what having a mixed orientation relationship means to the couple seeking treatment. The delicate issue of commitment is respectfully explored, and societal myths related to bisexuality are addressed. Affirmative therapy is proposed as an effective theoretical approach, along with the Ex-PLISSIT Model to guide treatment.

Relationship themes and structures of bisexual individuals

ABSTRACTIn this review, we examine current literature on binegative attitudes and stereotypes that affect bisexual people in relationships, bisexual people's engagement in mixed orientation relationships, and their experiences of monogamy and consensual non-monogamy. Despite systemic barriers that can pose a negative impact on the relationships of bisexual people, we also conclude that bisexual individuals have the capacity to experience positive relationship outcomes in both same-gender and different-gender relationships.

“How We Stay Together Without Going Crazy:” Reconstruction of Reality Among Women of Mixed-Orientation Relationships

ABSTRACTUntil recently, the literature that addressed the phenomenon of mixed-orientation relationships, in which the female partner is straight and the male partner is non-straight, has focused mainly on the men’s perspective. Most of the studies have employed a pessimistic tone, underscoring the obstacles faced by each of the partners. This study was designed to understand how women of mixed-orientation relationships construct their reality within such a relationship, focusing on elements that assist them in maintaining those relationships. Based on the phenomenological paradigm, in-depth interviews with eight women in mixed-orientation relationships were conducted. The findings indicate that in order to adapt to their newly constructed reality, women reframe various individual, marital, and social aspects in their lives. Those reframing processes constituted a point of departure to developing a conceptual model, which outlines the journey to reality reconstruction among women in mixed-orientation relationships.

From MOM to MORE: Emerging Research on Mixed Orientation Relationships

Mixed orientation relationships (MOREs) refer to persons in a relationship whose sexual orientations do not match. To date, however, most literature on MOREs has focused somewhat narrowly on mixed orientation marriages (MOMs), in which one spouse is heterosexual and the other experiences same-sex attraction and may or may not identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. This review focuses on 14 recently published scholarly articles, noting an emerging shift in the literature from MOMs to the more broad and inclusive concept of MOREs. Relationship factors, the influence of religious identity, lesbian and bisexual female partners, intentional MOREs, and clinical practice issues are discussed. Further research on MOREs that looks beyond the traditional viewpoint of MOMs is needed in order to better understand the particular challenges, as well as the unique resiliency factors, seen within these non-traditional relationships.

Gay Fathers in Mixed-Orientation Relationships: Experiences of Those Who Stay in Their Marriages and of Those Who Leave

Many gay men have become parents in the context of heterosexual relationships; ultimately, some separate from female partners while others stay with them. In this study, we compared the experiences of 110 formerly married gay fathers who were currently in relationships with men, 44 formerly married gay fathers who were currently single, and 14 gay fathers who remained married to women. In an Internet survey, we examined relationship satisfaction, parenting stress, sexual orientation disclosure, and gay identity among these men, all of whom had become fathers in the context of heterosexual relationships. Results showed that gay fathers who were currently married to women reported lower relationship satisfaction, affection, consensus, and lower overall dyadic adjustment in their current relationships. Formerly married gay fathers who were currently single or currently in relationships with male partners reported greater openness about their sexual identities than did still-married gay fathers. The men who were currently in relationships, however, did not report differences in relationship cohesion or parenting stress as a function of partners’ gender. In summary, self-identified gay men who were currently in relationships with women reported less openness about their sexual orientation and lower relationship satisfaction, but not more parenting stress than did formerly married gay fathers.

Couple Therapy with GLB-Straight Relationships

Mixed-orientation relationships can be mutually satisfying and unproblematic. They may become challenging when one partner's gay, lesbian, or bisexual orientation is revealed unexpectedly during a long-term relationship, and the G/L/B partner wishes to act on his or her same-sex attractions, or the straight partner cannot come to terms with the revelation. Awareness and disclosure of same-sex attractions are often delayed due to the cultural and personal effects of homophobia and biphobia. Couple therapy can help these couples by helping them to understand the different experiences and therapeutic needs of the partners, sorting through and addressing the underlying relational issues brought out by the conflict, providing education and resources, and offering possibilities for redefining the relationship. The therapist should be aware of the diverse outcomes that can result and be prepared to facilitate the negotiation of changes. Successfully creating a sustainable relationship depends on the quality of the relationship before disclosure and both partners’ willingness to focus on reconstructing the relationship.

Counseling Heterosexual Spouses of Bisexual Men and Women and Bisexual-Heterosexual Couples

SUMMARY In approximately two million current or former marriages in the United States, one of the spouses is bisexual, gay, or lesbian. When lesbian, gay, or bisexual spouses disclose their sexual orientation, their heterosexual spouses face unique issues. Their coping proceeds through common stages from initial trauma to eventual transformation. Mixed-orientation couples, too, progress through typical stages as they deal with complex relationship challenges. Heterosexual spouses of bisexual partners and bisexual-heterosexual couples face the additional challenge of understanding bisexuality. Resolving the issues and coming to terms with the disclosure for spouses and couples may take more than three years. Peer support and counseling help spouses clarify their needs, goals, and values during this period. For therapists working with such clients, scant literature about heterosexual spouses in these marriages and bisexual-heterosexual couples and the general lack of knowledge about bisexuality and mixed-orientation relationships make it difficult to know how best to counsel spouses. Counseling is most effective when therapists know the core issues of heterosexual spouses, typical stages of their resolving them, and the common path through which bisexual-heterosexual couples progress. With effective counseling, heterosexual spouses and bisexual-heterosexual couples are more likely to resolve issues constructively and to grow in individual strength and mutual understanding.